"The North Carolina Senate gave tentative approval Tuesday to a bill that makes Duke Energy close its 33 coal ash ponds in the state within 15 years, but it blocked a vote on shifting costs away from consumers.

The measure passed 45-0 on its second reading after sailing through committees last week. A third Senate vote, expected Wednesday, is required. A companion bill in the N.C. House is still in committee.

The measure sets deadlines of 2019, 2024 and 2029 for Duke to close its ponds, based on three risk levels. State environmental officials and a new, appointed Coal Ash Management Commission would assign those priorities."